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Principles For Safety In A Warehouse
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As the saying goes, “A gram of prevention is worth a kilogram of cure.” For this reason, every workplace has safety rules to prevent accidents as well as procedures for handling emergencies. Some, such as industrial plants, have more rules than others because conditions are more hazardous. A warehouse is one of the workplaces that have many safety hazards.
Step 1: Prevent Safety Hazards
Unsafe conditions and human error cause most accidents. Correcting potential dangers and behaving carefully and responsibly can eliminate many situations which could result in accidents and injury.
Step 2: Obey Safety Rules
Every workplace must follow rules set by the Occupational Health and Safety Association (OHASA). Most safety procedures are set by employers to protect workers and themselves (since accidents are costly). Safety rules are often posted on bulletin boards or printed in company manuals. Many rules arise from past accidents. Read, understand and obey them.
Step 3: Operate Equipment Safety
Most equipment manuals explain how to operate, maintain and fix machines for maximum safety. Workers should pay special attention to warnings in these instructions. They also should protect themselves by wearing any recommended safety gear such as glasses, goggles, ear protection or gloves. For example, a person operating the forklift must adhere to all safety measures when operating the forklift.
Step 4: Know Emergency Procedures
Most workplaces have plans for handling emergencies to helping prevent injury and damage. For example, posted signs alert workers what to do in case of fire. They may have procedures outlines for providing emergency first aid. The rescue squad and fire department phone numbers may be posted next to every telephone. Workers who know what action to take in an emergency can prevent a minor problem from turning into a major disaster.
Step 5: Stay Alert
Aware, attentive workers protect themselves and co-workers by being alert to potential dangers. This is especially important when working alone or late at night. Avoiding danger is the best way to prevent safety hazards.